Childhood sexual abuse is an unimaginable crime. This shatters a young child’s sense of safety, alters their development, and leaves lasting scars. Many times, these issues can follow them into adulthood.
The trauma rewires the way a child sees themselves, others, and the world. However, with the right help, they can find the skills and strength to move past these horrific events. How does sexual abuse affect a child? Here is what you need to know.
Emotional Wounds That No One Sees
Children are trusting. That nature can make them targets for child sex abuse. While most children grow up feeling safe, those who are abused often feel like they have been robbed of their childhood. They may struggle with feelings of being “different” or “damaged.” This can cause issues when connecting with peers who have not experienced trauma.
This abuse is more prevalent than we would like to think. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), every nine seconds a child is sexually abused.
Many children who experience abuse live in a state of fear. They often fear it will happen again or that no one will believe them. As a result, they can suffer from nightmares, panic attacks, and constant worry.
Along with that, survivors battle shame and guilt. Abusers use manipulation to make them believe they are responsible for what happened. That misplaced guilt can follow them for years. As these children mature into adults, they have difficulties with confidence.
Some children shut down completely. They may be unable to feel joy, sadness, or excitement. This emotional detachment is a coping mechanism. However, it can make it hard for them to form healthy relationships later in life.
Behavioral Red Flags
Children may not have the words to express their pain. However, you will see behavioral changes. These can be subtle or extreme, but they are almost always a cry for help.
Some children become easily angered. Sometimes, they lash out at parents, teachers, or friends. They may pick fights or act out in ways that seem completely out of character.
Older children might revert to behaviors associated with younger children. They might suddenly start wetting the bed, sucking their thumb, or clinging to caregivers more than usual. This is a sign of extreme stress. It could be an attempt to return to a time when they felt safe.
A once-engaged student may become withdrawn, distracted, or even start skipping school. The trauma makes it difficult to focus. In some cases, the school may remind them of the abuse if the perpetrator is a teacher, coach, or peer.
The Physical Toll
While emotional and behavioral signs are concerning, the physical effects of abuse can be just as painful for the child.
Many children complain of headaches, stomachaches, or body pain that doctors cannot explain. The stress of trauma can manifest into physical symptoms. They can become sick even when there’s no apparent illness.
Sleep should be a safe escape. Unfortunately, for abuse survivors, this is the opposite. Nightmares, insomnia, and night terrors keep them trapped in fear.
Some children turn to food for comfort. This can lead to overeating and weight gain. Others may restrict their eating to regain control over their bodies. This can develop into eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.
Lifelong Consequences
For many survivors, the trauma lingers. Without treatment, this impacts their choices, relationships, and mental health.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even personality disorders can develop in the aftermath. Without intervention, these conditions can lead to self-destructive behaviors.
Unfortunately, these individuals are more likely to experience more abuse in adulthood. Without proper support, they may find themselves in toxic relationships or unsafe situations. Many times, these individuals try to numb the pain. They could turn to alcohol, drugs, self-harm, or risky behaviors.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Healing starts with being heard. Too often, children stay silent out of fear, shame, or manipulation by their abuser. Parents, teachers, and caregivers must create a safe environment where children feel comfortable speaking up.
The most important thing you can do is believe a child when they disclose abuse. When they talk, listen and give a safe space to voice their pain.
You need to find professional help. Therapy, especially trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), can help children process their experiences in a healthy way.
You may need to take legal action and involve child protective services for any child in immediate danger. No matter what, their safety must come first.
Healing is never a straight path. Some days will be better than others. All children need to know they are loved and valued, no matter what.
Hope After Trauma
Sexual abuse can change the course of a child’s life. But with the right help, it does not have to define them. Survivors can heal, reclaim their sense of self, and build fulfilling futures.
Along with helping with the trauma, holding the perpetrator accountable is also important. At Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, we offer legal support for both childhood abuse survivors and their families. Discover how we can help during these difficult times.